Road bikes have many advantages. You can use them to exercise, go for rides with friends, and run errands around town at a slower pace (compared with a car). Speed, agility and efficiency are other hallmarks of road bikes. Before choosing and buying a bike, keep the following in mind: – What is your cycling style, and what do you want the bike for? – What is your friends' cycling style, and what do they recommend for you? – What is your budget? Road bikes range in price from $1,000 to more than $10,000. Also remember to budget for other items such as shoes, clothing and other equipment. What is a road bike? First, let us briefly outline what sets a road bike apart from other types of bicycles: Features of a road bike Very lightweight frame, wheels and components Handlebars curved backward (and slightly flat, similar to a mountain bike) Narrow tires Carbon fiber front fork No front or rear shock absorbers Women's and men's styles and a wide range of sizes Performance of a road bike Suitable for exercise, recreation and racing Designed for asphalt or paved routes and not suitable for dirt roads at all. They are faster than most types of bikes and can cover longer distances. Suitable for touring when a support vehicle accompanies you, since these bikes cannot carry heavy loads. Most road bikes lack the mounts for rock or mountain gear that touring and off-road bikes have. This does not mean you cannot go touring or ride for fun on a road bike, but you will have to carry extra bags for your luggage and equipment. Road bike frame geometry Although different road bike models may look alike, there are small but important differences in the overall design of their frames. Some road bikes are designed for fitness riding. If you plan to ride more than three times a week over distances of 20–150 miles, these bikes will suit you. In general, the frame is built so that the rider is more comfortable over fairly long distances. The saddle on these bikes also sits higher than on some other models. Road bikes designed for racing and competition have their own distinctive geometry. These models require the rider to be more flexible and to sit in a position that is better aerodynamically. They also handle better. Racing bikes are characterized by a strong, rigid frame, lighter wheels and a higher price. Flat-bar road bikes are similar to fitness bikes but have a higher saddle. This style suits recreational riding and touring. Tip: Choose a bike with a sport geometry unless you are looking for a bike for cycling races. Road bike frame materials The first and most common frame materials for road bikes are aluminum and carbon fiber. Aluminum frames are cheaper than carbon fiber frames and mostly offer a comfortable, smooth ride. Most bikes with aluminum frames also use carbon fiber in parts such as the front fork to better absorb bumps and vibrations from the road. Carbon fiber frames usually absorb more of the vibration from uneven terrain than aluminum frames, so you will have a much better and more comfortable ride. Because making carbon fiber frames is difficult and complex, they cost much more than aluminum frames. Of course, ride quality also depends on the frame design. Tip: If you are looking for a light and strong bike, a carbon fiber frame will suit you. If you plan to ride for recreation or fitness and are not after speed, choose an aluminum frame. Main components of a road bike The most important parts and components attached to the frame: Drivetrain (chainring, crankset, chain, bottom bracket, brake levers, shift levers) Wheels (rims, front and rear hubs, axles, spokes) Brakes, handlebars, saddle, seat clamp, pedals Complete component set (Groupset) Complete component sets are offered by manufacturers. A bike fitted with such a set (all parts of the same brand and model, from one company) looks neater and more stylish. Groupsetis a term used to describe the quality of bikes or to compare them with one another. Shimano and SRAM are among the well-known makers of bike equipment, especially drivetrain parts. The table below compares the groupset models offered by these two manufacturers: SRAM model Shimano model Intended use – Sora Entry level Apex Tiagra Standard level Rival 105 Mid level Force Ultegra High level (recreational) Red Dura-Ace Racing level Gears and chainrings The main difference between road bikes lies in their gearing systems. Let's start with the chainset. When you pedal, the chain turns the rear wheel. A road bike's chainset may have two or three chainrings, or it may be a compact set with smaller chainrings. Triple chainset: These bikes usually have a 9-speed cassette on the rear wheel, giving the rider a total of 27 gears. This type of system gives the rider a wide range of gears. Double chainset and compact chainset: Both have two chainrings at the front and are paired with a 10-speed cassette on the rear wheel, giving the rider 20 gears in total. A compact chainset narrows the gear range and is often better suited to sportier bike designs. Keep in mind that if you are a beginner, or plan to ride in hilly areas, a triple or compact chainset will suit you. Experienced cyclists, or those who ride on flat, even routes, may choose a double chainset. Total gears Rear cassette Chainring teeth Chainset 27 9-speed 30/39/50 Triple chainset 20 10-speed 50/34 Compact chainset 20 10-speed 39/53 Double chainset The number of teeth on the rear cassette also affects the bike's gear range. On the SRAM Apex model, the highest gear (smallest sprocket) has 11 or 12 teeth, and the lowest gear (largest sprocket) has 23 to 28 teeth. On the SRAM Apex, the drivetrain uses technology that provides a wider gear range than a triple chainset, even though it uses a compact chainset. This is achieved by having more teeth on the rear cassette. Replacing the rear cassette is a relatively inexpensive way to change a bike's gear range. However, it can sometimes cause problems, so it is best to consult a mechanic or specialist before doing it. Wheels Wheels have a significant effect on the following: The weight of the bike The bike's acceleration The bike's aerodynamics and how well you can control it in strong wind You usually won't need to worry much about choosing the right wheels for your bike, unless you are looking for specific features or an upgrade in quality. In general, the higher a bike sits within its own range of models, the lighter and faster it becomes. Recreational or fitness cyclists are less concerned about choosing wheels than those who plan to race or compete. Tip: The more a wheel can reduce the bike's weight and improve its handling, the better a choice it is to buy. Pedals Ordinary bikes have simple pedals and sometimes may have toe guards. However, more professional and larger bikes are sold without pedals. This may seem odd, but it is because professional cyclists prefer to choose the right pedals according to their goals and needs. If you want to pedal efficiently, you should use cycling shoes and clipless pedals. If you don't, it is like expecting excellent performance from a car running on low-octane fuel. Pedals are offered by many different brands (including Shimano, Look, Time and Speedplay), and each brand has several models. A higher price means lighter weight, less wear and better performance. Brake levers and shifters In the past, these were two completely separate mechanisms located in two different places on the bike. In most modern bikes, however, the brake lever and the gear shifter are combined. There are differences in basic operation between different brands and models. By trying out different bikes, you will gradually come to understand the differences in how they work. Tip: When buying a bike, try holding the brake levers and check whether you are comfortable. If you have small hands, look for levers that suit you or that can be adjusted. Choosing the right frame size Most road bikes come in more than six frame sizes, in different shapes. It is important to choose a size that suits your body. A frame that fits you will give a more comfortable and enjoyable ride, and you will have better control of the bike. Frame size may be given in centimetres (based on the length of the seat tube) or in general sizes from XS to XL. Note that women's and men's bikes with the same frame size do not have identical frames. On women's bikes the top tube is shorter, because women generally have shorter torsos and legs than men. How do you know which frame size is right for you? An experienced bike shop assistant should be able to work out and recommend the right size just by looking at you. Some shops also have a special sizing system or sizing calculators. A bike shop assistant should also ask about your previous cycling experience, flexibility, riding style and goals, so that they can recommend a more accurate frame size. Although the top tube length is important, the overall length of the bike is a more important factor, because it affects the distance between your hands and the handlebars. Bikes There is a lot of competition between bike brands. The final price of a bike is a good basis for comparing different brands and models. The most important factors affecting a bike's price are: The frame material The quality of the components A bike with a carbon fibre frame will be far more expensive than a similar one with an aluminium frame. And the higher the quality of the components, the higher the price of the bike. It is best to first work out your budget and the maximum you can spend. Tip: In the long run, buying a top-quality bike works out cheaper than buying a low-quality one and then replacing or upgrading its components later. Keep in mind that you may need to spend around $100 to $250 on pedals and special cycling shoes. Other accessories and equipment include: Bike equipment Rider equipment Tire-changing tool Helmet Spare tube Shoes Saddle bag Gloves Small pump (air pump) Cycling shorts Chain oil Water bottle Bike repair tools Base layer Bottle cage Jacket or windbreaker Ride the bike and test it Ask the seller if you can ride and try out a few bikes. With the seller's help, choosing will be easier. Even if the prices are similar, each bike rides differently. Test each bike for about 10 to 15 minutes. You will usually feel better on one of them; you are looking for the bike that suits your body shape best. Tip: You should choose a bike that fits both your current needs and your future needs (once you have gained more experience). Check comfort and efficiency Choosing a frame in the right size is the first step. The next important step is checking the saddle height. Once you have adjusted the bike properly to your size, you will have a much better riding experience. A professional bike fit includes checking the cleat position on your shoes and the pedals, the saddle height, how well your hands reach the handlebars, and the relative position of the other parts of the bike and your body. The goal is to see which position is most comfortable for you and to reduce or eliminate any extra strain. This also improves your pedalling efficiency. Although there are certain rules for cycling, you have to gain all of your cycling experience yourself, whether riding alone or in a group with friends. You can ride anywhere from thirty minutes to six hours at different times. If you are a beginner cyclist, it is best to join a team or club and get more advice and tips about cycling from your teammates or friends.

Looking for a new bike that suits you? The good news is that you don't need to learn bike jargon to choose a good one! Buying a bike can be broken down into three steps: 1. Decide on the type of bike: The right bike for you depends on where and how you ride. We've put together a summary of the bike categories to make your choice easier and better informed. 2. Performance and price: Generally, across different bikes there is a similar relationship between performance and price. To get a bike with better performance and quality, or one made of a more specialized material such as carbon, you have to pay more. 3. Make sure the bike is the right size for you: Bikes come in different sizes. Look for the right bike based on your height. Read more about the basics of bike sizing. Decide on the type of bike Ask yourself where you want to ride: city streets, dedicated bike paths, dirt roads, or a mix of all of them? The table below shows the options and the types of bikes suited to each kind of route: Bike model Route type Road bikes, hybrid bikes, electric bikes: paved roads, dedicated bike paths. Hybrid and electric bikes: streets (smooth or rough), natural trails. Touring bikes: any route, from asphalt to wilderness. Mountain bikes, electric bikes: dirt roads. Almost any bike can ride on asphalt or paved surfaces. Some bikes can handle several types of terrain. To make a better choice, work out where most of your riding will take place. Below you can find more information about the different bike categories. Electric bikes Many different types of bikes also come with electric options. Take a little time to consider it; an electric bike might be right for you. In general, an electric bike has an electric motor that assists your pedaling and gives you an easier ride. Although these bikes are expensive, climbing hills on them is easier than on non-electric models. Electric bikes also let you ride farther and faster. Road bikes Road bikes are suitable for recreational and fitness riding, touring and travel, and racing. Most of these bikes have drop handlebars that curve backward, which puts the rider in an aerodynamic position. A slight forward lean may be desirable. Road bikes fall into the following categories (including several electric models): Endurance road bikes: "Sustained comfort" might be a better name for these bikes, because their frames are designed so that the rider feels more comfortable over long distances. One of the factors behind this is the wider tires, which let the bike roll with less effort. Gravel bikes (for sand and dirt roads): Since cyclists always like to push the limits and pick a new destination for each ride, multi-surface bikes (bikes suited to several different kinds of terrain) have been important for several years. Hybrid bikes are one example. If you want to ride longer distances at higher speeds, gravel bikes are a good option. Thanks to their special handlebars (with the two ends curving backward) and wide tires, these bikes are more aerodynamic and can ride on both paved and dirt roads. Touring bikes: These bikes differ from road bikes in several ways. Touring bikes are designed to carry loads over long routes. With their sturdier frames, these models can handle heavy loads. They also have special mounts and racks for this purpose. Performance bikes: These lightweight, aerodynamic bikes are designed for group rides and fast riding on flat and hilly routes, or for certain races. Mountain bikes Mountain bikes have a strong frame as well as a suspension system and shock absorbers. They can ride on all kinds of terrain, including dirt roads, rocks, mountains, cliffs and other uneven surfaces, which makes riding them enjoyable. Mountain bikes have lower gears than road models, which makes climbing hills easier. There are two common terms for these bikes: "full suspension", meaning a bike with shock absorbers at both the front and rear; and "hardtail", meaning a bike with a front suspension fork and no rear suspension. Full-suspension models are more expensive but offer a more comfortable ride. They can also handle a wider variety of terrain. Mountain bikes come in two styles: Cross-country bikes: These are lightweight and more versatile. This type of bike is also seen in races, so it has both climbing power and racing speed. If you plan to ride off-road or do non-technical (or only slightly technical) riding, this bike is right for you. Trail bike: This is the usual choice for cyclists who are riding in the mountains for the first time. If you want to ride in a group with friends on dirt roads, a trail bike is the right one for you. Riding these bikes is efficient and enjoyable. All-mountain bike: If you are looking for technical riding, this type of bike is made for you. With it you can perform a variety of techniques. Their features include enjoyable descents, strong climbing ability, and the balance needed for steep terrain. Fat-tire bikes: Very wide tires are the most distinctive feature of these bikes. Wide tires make riding on snow and sand, and even on very hard, rough routes, much easier. Hybrid bike If you are looking for a bike that can be ridden on dirt roads as well as in the city, this bike will suit you. You may have noticed that hybrid bikes are also used for exercise and fitness. This is because of their special features, including comfort and a handling that is smooth and easy. With their larger-diameter tires, these bikes are faster, and because the tires are wide they can also handle off-road riding. If you plan to ride off-road, a hybrid bike with a front suspension fork is more suitable. Specialty bikes In addition to the types of bikes described above, there are other kinds of bikes: Cruiser bike: A cruiser bike is designed for easy, leisurely riding in the city. Its features include wide tires and a soft, comfortable saddle. These bikes are also suitable for short rides on flat dirt trails. Cargo bike: These bikes are designed to carry heavy loads. You can use a cargo bike for household shopping, carrying children or belongings, and so on. These bikes are not fast, but they are very useful for everyday tasks. Folding bike: These bikes can be folded and placed alongside your other travel gear. Folding bikes are very suitable for people who cycle to work or travellers who do not have enough space to carry luggage. Light weight, sufficient sturdiness and quick folding are among the features of these bikes. Performance and price considerations You do not need to study the equipment and technology used in each type of bike, but you should know that the better equipped a bike is, the higher its price will be. When you want to buy a bike within your budget, consider the following factors, which raise the cost of a bike: Full suspension, hardtail (a bike with a front suspension fork and no rear suspension), or no suspension: Full-suspension bikes (with shock absorbers at both the front and rear) are usually more expensive, but in return you get a smoother, more comfortable ride. You can also move more easily on hard, rough routes. Hardtail bikes (with front suspension only) absorb the vibrations caused by bumps on the route, but they perform less well than full-suspension models. Carbon and aluminum: Bikes with carbon frames are lighter and offer better ride quality, but they are also more expensive. Bikes with aluminum frames are available on the market at almost every price. Electric riding: Electric bikes extend the range and possibilities of cycling for everyone. Quality of materials: The price of every bike depends on the materials used to build it. The better the quality of the materials, the more you naturally have to pay. Bike gear system The number of gears and the range of each one differ from bike to bike. However, bikes in each category (the categories of bikes were described earlier) usually have a similar gear system. Tire size Tire size is another feature of a bike, and it is determined once you choose the right category of bike. There is, however, one big exception: most mountain bikes have 29-inch or 27.5-inch tires. From a financial point of view, there is not much price difference between the different sizes. So the important question when choosing tires is the performance you have in mind. Brake type In past years, rim brakes were more common than disc brakes. Disc brakes have been presented as the better and more powerful brakes in every situation. Since the price of disc brakes has dropped in recent years, their sales and use have increased. Rim brakes, which work by pressing brake pads against the walls of the rims, are still considered an economical option. Checking or replacing the pads on this type of brake is very easy. Disc brakes, which work by pressing the pads against a special disc (rotor), fall into two categories: hydraulic and mechanical. Hydraulic disc brakes offer stronger, better braking and respond to just a slight movement of your finger. The pads on these disc brakes are also easy to adjust, and no manual adjustment is needed. Bike size Buying the right size of bike is the first step. Fortunately, most bike manufacturers provide the information you need so that you can choose a suitable bike based on your height. The most important factors in bike fit, namely the distance between you and the top tube and the distance between you and the handlebars, can be adjusted later. Keep in mind that it will take several weeks before you gradually get used to a new bike.

A mountain bike looks quite different from a standard bike, so mountain biking clothing needs to be different too! There is no rule against wearing either tight or baggy shorts on a bike. But mountain biking is much more enjoyable if you wear clothes that feel comfortable wherever you ride and however you ride. Protection matters too. Whether you ride cautiously or recklessly, you need clothing that protects you from trail hazards such as thorn bushes, branches and rocks. Mountain bike shorts and padding (chamois) Like the components of the drivetrain, mountain bike shorts have special features that give you more comfort and freedom of movement. They also have padding to reduce friction and moisture. Padded shorts and special liner shorts can be bought separately from sports shops. On most mountain bike models, aerodynamics are not that important. But if you plan to ride in a race, or take a regular ride over long distances, snug, well-fitted shorts are the better choice aerodynamically. Some cyclists prefer tight shorts because they also support the movement of the muscles. Most mountain bike shorts are made of sturdy fabric and have plenty of pockets. The more abrasion protection a rider needs, the heavier and longer the fabric used. For example, for downhill riding you need thicker, longer shorts than for uphill riding. The pads attached to mountain bike shorts are narrower than those on ordinary cycling shorts, because for most of the ride you sit upright, and along the way you may stand up or sit down in places. Most liners are removable, which lets you buy undershorts with a padded liner separately. Whether you choose padded shorts or shorts and a pad (as separate items) depends entirely on your personal preference. Mountain bike jerseys In general, mountain bike jerseys and road bike jerseys are not very different from each other. Mountain bike jerseys are fitted, but they are cut a little looser than road bike models. Sometimes a looser, larger-than-usual jersey is chosen for a more comfortable ride. Longer sleeves give more protection against thorns and tree branches. If you plan to use a backpack, you no longer need the saddle bags that attach to the back of the bike. For lighter riding, rear bags are better for carrying food, tools, keys, a mobile phone and money. A windbreaker panel at the front of the rider can help at high speeds or when climbing. Mountain bike gloves Two distinctive features set mountain bike gloves apart from road bike gloves: padding and finger coverage. Since the handlebar grips on mountain bikes are padded, wearing padded gloves is optional. For rides of several hours, the more padding there is, the more comfortable you will be. However, gloves without padding are lighter and cooler and allow you more freedom of movement. Fingerless gloves are generally not widely used. Sweaty hands feel uncomfortable, but when we see fingers that have been injured (from impacts), we realize that full-finger gloves are always the best choice. Cold-season clothing for mountain biking Warm clothing for the cold seasons lets you start mountain biking earlier in spring and keep going later in autumn. You should always carry wind and rain protection in your pack, especially if you plan to ride all year round. Tip: Do not put on your warm layers before starting your big trip until the cold actually arrives. If you get hot right at the start, you will be badly overheated and tired for the rest of the route. Cycling jackets The design of mountain bike outerwear is nothing very special. The first difference from road cycling clothing is that the fabric used is more durable. You do, of course, need a more specialized design that is windproof, does not bother your shoulders, and gives enough coverage when you lean forward. It should also have a hood that is compatible with a helmet. For more serious protection, you should wear a waterproof, breathable jacket. For short rides in ordinary weather, cyclists choose light, compact clothing. Cycling pants Cycling pants, most of which are padded, can be a good replacement for shorts on cold days. And if the weather in the area where you ride is wet, you will need waterproof, breathable pants, just like the jackets. Insulating layers For the upper body, you can get the warmth you need from the base layers or the light fleece jacket you are wearing. Arm and leg warmers and hats Arm and leg warmers and a hat or headband are practical options and are easy to use along the route. Mountain bike shoes Compatibility for pedalling: the first thing to consider is how well the shoes work with the bike's pedal system. You can also buy shoes that have regular soles and that can take suitable cleats when you are not using clip-in pedals. Walkability: Another important point to consider is how much walking you will do in the mountains. Shoes with sticky rubber soles make walking easier and let you cross hard terrain more comfortably, which is a good option if you are a beginner. And if your bike breaks down along the trail, you will have to continue on foot, so you need suitable shoes. Pedaling efficiency: Certain stiff shoes are designed to pedal and drive the bike efficiently, but walking in them is difficult. These shoes are usually more breathable than regular shoes. Waterproof protection: For wet and cold conditions, look for waterproof shoes. Another option is to buy a pair of shoe covers. Mountain bike helmet Your mountain biking style is very important in choosing the right helmet. In situations that demand a lot of riding skill, or on routes with descents, you naturally need a sturdier helmet. Cross-country riding: Here, climbing speed matters, and where the descents are not steep, look for a well-ventilated helmet similar to those used for regular road cycling. Trail riding: Riders on trails usually encounter terrain that demands more skill than cross-country riders face. They therefore need more coverage and protection than cross-country riders. All-mountain (endurance): This type of riding involves steeper slopes, more skill and lower speeds. You therefore need much more coverage and protection. Downhill: This is where you see maximum protective coverage. A full-face helmet and possibly safety goggles instead of sunglasses are essential gear. Mountain biking pads and guards The advice on choosing pads is similar to the helmet advice: the more dangerous the riding conditions, the more coverage and padding you need. Most experienced riders usually wear only knee pads, while newcomers may want to protect their elbows as well. Sometimes even experienced riders, for comfort, do not wear protective pads at all until they reach steep descents. Those who ride in truly mountainous areas should have thicker, larger pads. Pads are also essential for downhill riding, and riders often wear shin guards as well. Cycling backpacks In non-racing conditions, you need a backpack that can hold all the gear you need. Most cyclists prefer backpacks that have a water reservoir. Translated by the Dobisell content team